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Passing of a Green Industry icon

MNLA is saddened to report the passing of our friend and colleague, Robert
"Bob" Childs, who died on January 30. Our deepest condolences to his
family. A celebration of Bob's life will be held on Saturday, February 7th at
2:00 pm at the UMass Campus Center, Amherst, MA.

Robert D. Childs Jr (1954–2015)

Obituary

After battling cancer for nine years with grace, dignity, and courage, Bob, 60, died peacefully on January 30, surrounded by the love of family and friends. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Deborah, and two sons, Andrew and Taylor. Bob was extremely proud of his sons and considered them to be his good friends.

He is also survived by his mother, Hazel of Greenfield, and sister Judith Tilton of Atkinson NH.

Bob graduated from Greenfield High School. He attended Greenfield Community College and then the Stockbridge School of Agriculture where he earned an Associates degree in Fruit and Vegetable Production. Bob earned his Bachelors and Masters degree in Entomology from the University of Massachusetts. He remained at the University in a variety of positions, spending the majority of his career there as both an instructor for the Stockbridge School and an Extension Specialist dealing with the green industry in Massachusetts. Bob was a dedicated teacher and truly enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. Known as "Bobby Bugs", his love of teaching was obvious to both college students and adults. He lectured extensively to various groups including tree wardens, arborists, foresters, landscapers, nursery owners and workers, and garden clubs throughout New England. He was a member the Horticultural Club of Boston and served on the education committee of New England Grows for many years.